- Moyes has had the luxury of a full-strength squad in recent weeks.
- A stern test awaits this Sunday as they face city rivals, Liverpool.
- Charly Alcaraz eyes a long-awaited return ahead of historic fixture.
Everton’s upcoming showdown against Liverpool could be one of their closest in recent years.
The Blues sit five points behind their rivals, and a win on Sunday would throw them further into the mix for Champions League qualification.
After suffering a mid-season stumble due to injuries, suspensions, and absences due to AFCON, David Moyes has got his men back on track, and his squad continues to regain its strength.
As a tough challenge awaits the Toffees, they will be given an additional boost with the potential return of an impact midfielder.
Alcaraz spotted in training ahead of the Merseyside Derby
Charly Alcaraz last played for Everton in their 1-1 draw against Brighton and Hove Albion in January.
Since then he has been out with a knock, but the Argentine has struggled to generate consistent playing time with most of his appearances coming from the substitutes bench.
But in a positive turn of events, the 23-year-old was spotted in training after an update from Everton’s official X account as he ramps up his efforts to return to first-team action.
Alcaraz moved to Merseyside on a loan deal in January 2025 and signed permanently with the club last summer.
He has featured 34 times for the Toffees and registered seven goal contributions.
The return of Alcaraz adds to the list of handy impact players
The returning Alcaraz may not set the world alight as he will likely not feature heavily in the starting XI.
But for a side that has found themselves falling behind in matches and needed an injection of life from the bench, the midfielder presents himself as an ideal option that Moyes can turn to in times of need.
Much like the impact Tyrique George had on the team in his cameo against Brentford, Alcaraz offers a direct style of play, where he can run at defences and contribute defensively with his aggression.
Everton will no doubt find themselves in a losing situation again this season, but with Alcaraz back in the side, he can be a game-changer for the Blues.
If he gets the chance to shine on Sunday in a Hill Dickinson cauldron, the Argentinian knows that a goal, or even a vital assist, could see him earn himself a place in Evertonian folklore.
